Leave No Trace Advice from Wildlife

Leave No Trace has suggestions for how we can protect wildlife, but what suggestions do animals have for us? Check out this advice from wildlife on how we can Leave No Trace!


Remember All of Your Bear Necessities.
Make sure you have your  10 essentials and everything else you need to make your trip safe and comfortable. Learn about the area you are visiting and make a packing list. What you will eat, drink, and wear? How will you dispose of your waste and what will you need in an emergency? Review your plans and the gear you will need to Leave No Trace on your trip.

Slow Down and Choose the Durable Way.
Take time on the trail to think about where you step. Concentrate travel on durable surfaces like rock, trails, and bare ground. Sticking to established trails and durable surfaces protects sensitive vegetation from being trampled and preserves important animal habitat.

The Best Nest is Found, Not Made.
Seek out designated campsites when choosing where to park and pitch tents. It is not necessary to alter campsites by building new fire rings or furniture. Rocks and logs are important for soil health and the ecosystem around the campsite. Leave campsites as they are found to provide better habitat for wildlife and a better experience for other campers. 

Squirrel Away Your Trash and Food Scraps. 
Store food, trash, and smellables in a secure place away from animals. Human food is unhealthy for animals and can disrupt their natural behaviors. Keep food in an animal resistant container like a storage locker, bear canister, or in a hard-sided vehicle to protect wildlife and your stuff.

Leave No Trace’s Cameron Larnerd and Nick Whites are part of the 2019 Subaru/Leave No Trace Traveling Trainer Program that provides free, mobile education to communities across the country. Proud partners of this program include Subaru of America, REI, Eagles Nest Outfitters, Deuter, Thule, Fjällräven and Klean Kanteen.